6 Expert-Approved Scalp Serums for Hair Growth at Amazon

As women, we share many universal experiences, one of which is the dreaded “hair wall” in the shower. If you’re anything like me, you wipe away the evidence as soon as you towel off, only to do it again the very next day. To help reduce shedding and promote hair growth, I spoke with a scalp expert on the best scalp serums anyone can incorporate into their daily routine, all of which can be found on Amazon, and are under $50.

“Scalp serums can help establish a healthy scalp which supports proper follicle fitness,” Kerry E. Yates, a Trichologist and founder of Colour Collective, told me. Yates said that serums or scalp tonics are her preferred format for topical treatment, but it’s also important to maintain a healthy diet and balance any vitamin deficiencies. She noted that you should use a serum as the last step in your morning or evening routine, noting that formulas with ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, witch hazel, and salicylic acid can complement other hair treatments and be especially helpful for those experiencing thinning hair.

“I liken it to using a moisturizer on your face, then cleansing your skin,” Yates explained. “The purpose of the serum is to leave it on for the most effective results.” When using a scalp serum, she suggested applying it directly onto the problem areas and then massaging it into the scalp. “Massaging does two things: it helps to distribute the product in addition to releasing scalp tension and improving blood flow.”

According to Yates, this Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution is made with the perfect mix of ingredients; anti-oxidants like biotin and rosemary leaf extract, and amino acids to “feed the scalp and to support healthy follicle fitness.” She noted that the serum is designed with a roller applicator tip, which is easy to use and “ensures a more thorough distribution.”

The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density has a super lightweight formula that “does not weigh the hair down,” per Yates. She added that the serum’s peptide blend is designed to support follicle fitness in three distinct ways (thicker, fuller, and denser-looking hair) using a blend of  redensyl, procapil, and capixyl.”  She shared that it’s important to avoid using heavy oils on the scalp, as they can clog hair follicles and hinder future hair growth.

This Aveda scalp serum comes in a smaller size (1 fluid ounce to be exact), but don’t let its compact build fool you. The mini bottle has enough product to last you between 30 and 45 days, according to Yates. She told me that the serum helps maintain a healthy microbiome, soothes scalp irritation, and preserves proper moisture balance. Yates added that the serum’s formula is dermatologist-approved and suitable for all hair types.

If you suffer from a dry or itchy scalp, Yates suggested this Dove three-in-one scalp serum, which uses niacinamide, peptides, and glycerin to help soothe it. She noted that the formula does have one ingredient to be mindful of (silicones), which can clog the follicles. Yates suggested washing your hair every other day rather than every day can help, since daily use of cleansers can further cause scalp dryness or irritation.

Nécessaire’s The Scalp Serum is made with capixyl to support hair growth and hyaluronic acid to soothe the scalp, per Yates. She shared that this serum can improve overall scalp health, especially when used daily with a scalp massage. “Several studies have shown that simple scalp massages have helped to improve scalp health and decrease hair fall,” Yates said.

According to Yates, saw palmetto, ginger root, pumpkin seed extract, and rosemary are a few of the natural ingredients in Mumms Scalp Serum that help support follicle health. This serum specifically targets hormonal hair loss, per the brand, so it’s no surprise to see that one shopper with postpartum hair wrote, “This is the first product that’s actually made a difference.” They continued, “Within two months, I noticed less shedding and new growth around my temples. My hair feels softer, stronger, and looks so much healthier overall.”